Translation and Meaning of: 交差 - kousa

The Japanese word 交差 (こうさ, kōsa) is a term that often appears in everyday and technical contexts, carrying meanings that range from the literal to the metaphorical. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the language, understanding how this word is used can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, practical applications, as well as tips for memorizing it easily.

交差 is composed of two kanji: 交 (こう, kō), which means "intersection" or "exchange," and 差 (さ, sa), which can be translated as "difference" or "disparity." Together, they form a concept that revolves around intersections, whether in a physical sense, like streets that cross, or an abstract sense, like ideas that meet. If you have ever used the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you know it provides clear examples of how this word appears in real sentences.

Meaning and usage of 交差

The most common meaning of 交差 is "crossing" or "intersection." For example, when we talk about streets that intersect, we use 交差点 (こうさてん, kōsaten), where 点 (てん, ten) means "point." This term is essential for those learning Japanese as it appears on traffic signs and directions. Additionally, 交差 can also be used in more abstract contexts, such as when two lines of thought meet.

Another interesting use is in expressions like 意見が交差する (いけんがこうさする, iken ga kōsa suru), which means "opinions intersect" or "having a debate." This shows how the word can be flexible, applying to both concrete situations and discussions. If you want to memorize 交差, a good strategy is to associate it with images of intersections or Venn diagrams, which represent visual intersections.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The etymology of 交差 traces back to the kanjis that compose it. The first, 交, has ancient roots and originally represented crossed legs, symbolizing the idea of "meeting" or "exchange." 差, on the other hand, carries the sense of "difference" or "discrepancy," but when combined with 交, it takes on a more dynamic meaning. This combination is not random—it reflects the way Japanese constructs words from complementary ideograms.

It is worth noting that 交差 is not a rare or archaic word. On the contrary, it is quite commonly used in both formal and informal texts, making it a valuable addition to the vocabulary of any student. If you are already familiar with words like 交通 (こうつう, kōtsū – traffic) or 交換 (こうかん, kōkan – exchange), you will notice that 交 appears in various terms related to movement and interaction.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 交差 is to create visual associations. Imagine a map with various lines crossing—this can help you remember the meaning of "intersection." Another tip is to practice with everyday sentences, like この道はあそこで交差します (kono michi wa asoko de kōsa shimasu – "This street crosses there"). The more you use it in real contexts, the more natural it will become.

Furthermore, pay attention to the compounds in which 交差 appears. Terms like 交差検証 (こうさけんしょう, kōsa kenshō – "cross-validation") are common in technical fields, demonstrating how the word adapts to different areas. If you enjoy animes or dramas, be alert to dialogues involving directions or discussions—often, 交差 comes up in those moments.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 交わり (mawari) - Intersection, crossing, exchange
• 交錯 (kousaku) - Crossroads, intertwining
• 交差点 (kousaten) - Crossroads
• 交差路 (kousaro) - Crossroad, intersection
• 交差点角 (kousatenkado) - Corner of an intersection
• 交差点付近 (kousaten fukin) - Proximity to the intersection
• 交差点前 (kousaten mae) - In front of the intersection

交差

Romaji: kousa
Kana: こうさ
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: to cross

Meaning in English: cross

Definition: A place or point where two or more things pass through each other.

Example Sentences - (交差) kousa

See below some example sentences:

交差点で右に曲がってください。

Kousaten de migi ni magatte kudasai

Please turn right at the intersection.

Turn right at the intersection.

• 交差点 - means "crossing" in Japanese.
• で - is a particle that indicates the place where the action takes place, in this case, "at the intersection".
• 右に - means "to the right" in Japanese.
• 曲がって - is the verb "curver" in the present tense and in the form -te, which indicates a continuous action.
• ください - is a polite way of asking for something in Japanese, in this case, "please turn to the right."

交差点には注意してください。

Kousaten ni wa chuui shite kudasai

Please pay attention at the intersection.

Be careful with the intersection.

• 交差点 - means "crossing" in Japanese.
• に - is a particle that indicates the location of the object of the sentence, in this case, the intersection.
• は - is a particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case, the attention warning.
• 注意 - means "attention" in Japanese.
• してください - is an expression that means "please do" or "please pay attention."